[MS] Sageo

The Sageo, the twisted lace which is provided on the Saya Kurikata, has two main purposes: it is tied to the Obi (belt) to prevent the Saya from falling when the sword is carried by its owner, and it has an ornamental purpose when the sword is displayed. Some Koryu also teach how to use the Sageo as a weapon or to tie an opponent's hands (Hojujutsu). It is also said that the lace serves as a spiritual bond between the samurai and the sword.

Iaito Sageo are usually made of lower quality synthetic silk (not offered here) cotton or silk.
Cotton Sageo are available in plain colors as well as in check patterns.
Silk Sageo are only available in plain colors. Silk Sageo are woven more tightly than cotton but are also thinner, which gives them a harder touch than the cotton ones.
Please note that for the Black Silk Sageo, the former weaving (Kakucho) has been replaced by a new one (Shigeuchi), giving the sageo a thicker look.
The colors may vary slightly depending on batches due to the traditional dyeing techniques.

The standard Sageo length is 210 cm. Only the silk Sageo is available in 240 cm.

All Iaito are delivered with the Sageo tied with a knot called "Ronin" knot, the way most craftsmen do. It is the most common knot for decorative purposes.